Course details

Summary

The Master of Geographic Information Science is the only degree of its kind in New Zealand offering specialist subjects and research. It provides an interdisciplinary approach to Geographic Information Science, including taught courses and supervised research.

Graduates will have advanced knowledge in the field, with the ability to carry out original research and plan, execute and present the findings of applied GIS projects. They will be qualified to work as GIS professionals in research, government and industry.

The Master of Geographic Information Science consists of two parts; coursework and a thesis allowing for students to further investigate areas of interest to them and conduct independent and original research. A minimum of 120 points must be completed successfully for each part, totalling a minimum of 240 points.

Duration

Part I and Part II: two years full-time or equivalent part-time.

Part II (thesis-only): one to two years full-time or equivalent part-time.

Career opportunities

Postgraduate study can bring many career benefits eg, specialist skills and enhanced knowledge, entry into specific occupations, higher starting salary/progression rates, research capability/achievement and evidence of high academic attainment/self-discipline.

Entry criteria

Candidates wishing to enrol in the MGIS must have either:

• qualified for the Postgraduate Diploma in Geographic Information Science, or an equivalent postgraduate qualification, normally with a B average or better; or
• qualified for a bachelor's degree in a New Zealand University which is of relevance to the proposed course of study, normally with a B average or higher; and
• presented evidence of ability for advanced level academic study

and either:

• completed at least two undergraduate courses in GIS, at least one of which should be at 300-level or higher, as approved by the Programme Director of GIS; or
• have significant relevant work experience to serve as adequate preparation for the MGIS, as approved by the Programme Director of GIS.

Other English language requirements: TOEFL PBT with a minimum score of 575 and TWE with a minimum score of 4.5; CCEL EAP Level 2 with a minimum B+ grade; CAE or CPE score of 176 with a minimum of 169 in reading, writing, listening and speaking; Pearson Test of English (Academic) - PTE with an overall score of 64 and no PTE communicative skills score below 58.